Indraprastha’s assembly hall was really beautiful. One day when Yudhishthira’s court assembled, sage Narada brought a message from the late King Pandu, asking Yudhishthira to perform the Rajasuya Yajna. This great sacrifice was performed when a king became supreme in a land where other smaller kingdoms accepted him as the overlord. In case of opposition the opposing rulers had to be subdued and brought under control.
The news of the Rajasuya Yajna travelled far and wide. Krishna, hearing of it, also came to discuss it. Yudhishthira consulted with the wise and the learned and finally sought Krishna’s advice. Krishna told him about King Jarasandha (of Magadha) who was a formidable opponent. He was sure to oppose the Yajna. For the successful completion of the Yajna Jarasandha had to be done away at any cost.
King Jarasandha hated Krishna too for having killed his son-in-law, Kansa, who had been Krishna’s uncle. He would definitely challenge Yudhishthira who was known to be dear to Krishna. Only after defeating and killing Jarasandha could Yudhishthira hold the Rajasuya Yajna.
King Pandu’s Wish
